Signs of Fall at Ridgefield

I can't believe summer is gone and fall begins this weekend. The water levels at the Ridgefield NWR are still very low, but I did a quick drive thru yesterday hoping to spot a green heron (frequently seen late summer.) No herons spotted but a few shorebirds along the muddy bottoms and this Wood Duck drake in his fall or Eclipse molt of feathers. This set of feathers will last thru the winter and in the spring he will undergo another molt with his colorful nuptiual plumage. For any non-birders you can still make out the white saddle under the chin, red and white bill and yellow ring around red eyes.
The wood ducks are so brightly colored in summer that the fall change is dramatic. I've posted a summer woody below for comparison.
I hope we all get out and take some great fall photo's and hope to see some posted here soon.
Happy Shooting!

canon 7D 600mm f4.L +1.4TC

Regards, Craig
I have redesigned my websites opening/home page with a "Keynote" video, have a look if your interested.

Woody's summer colors

Great colors and comp for both. Love those eyes!

Never have seen a Wood Duck with the fall/winter plumage. Still pretty gorgeous in a much subdued way compared to the spring/summer outfit! Glad you posted.

Thanks for posting the pics and the info about Ridgefield, Craig. Nice shot. I also checked out your site, the intro video is great. Well done!

Cheers,

I never knew wood ducks had seperate fall/winter plumage Craig. The transformation is quite dramatic! Thanks for sharing!